RTIH is proving to be a game changer for start-ups, says NTR District Collector

District Collector NTR G. Lakshmisha interacts with exhibitors during MSME Utsav-2026 at Ratan Tata Innovation Hub, Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Enikepadu, near Vijayawada on Saturday. | Photo credit: GN Rao

The state government aims to encourage budding entrepreneurs, build a robust startup ecosystem and help innovators turn their ideas into successful ventures, said NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha.

Inaugurating the MSME Utsav at Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH) in Enikepad near Vijayawada on Saturday, on the occasion of International Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day, the Collector said that RTIH, the state government’s initiative to promote innovation and support startups, has proved to be a game changer.

He said that efforts are being made to combine the creativity of young innovators and the practical experience of industrialists. “RTIH provides a platform where innovators and established industrialists can communicate, collaborate and help each other achieve their goals,” he said.

Mr. Lakshmisha said that even a small idea, if backed with the right support, can grow into a successful business and contribute significantly to economic development.

He said MSME Utsavs play a vital role in providing start-ups with guidance, technical support and marketing opportunities. The collector later visited the exhibition stands, where more than 80 exhibitors, including several young innovators and entrepreneurs, demonstrated their products.

AP Chamber of Commerce President P. Bhaskara Rao said that Andhra Pradesh is gradually becoming an industrial hub. He said around 7,000 to 8,000 startups have received support from RTIH and noted that nearly 90% of the state’s industries belong to the SME sector. He emphasized the need for further strengthening of this sector to be an engine of industrial growth.

The festival was attended by more than 500 industry representatives and visitors. AP MSME Industries Association President D. Durgaprasad, JRD Tata ILA Chairman T. Srinivasa Rao, District Industries Officer M. Madhu and RTIH CEO Vijayawada Raviteja were among those present.

Published – 27 Jun 2026 20:07 IST